Wildlife Branch

What's Happening at the Dens

The fall viewing season is over and the snakes have gone underground for winter.

They will re-emerge next spring in late April/early May.

Check back here for updates on the spring viewing season.

Updated:
October 24 2018

Every spring, the Narcisse Snake Dens are alive with tens of thousands of
red-sided garter snakes as they slither to the surface from their winter dens.
These snakes are ready to begin their annual mating ritual. This spectacular
ritual lasts for a one to three week period in late April or early May,
depending on weather conditions. The male snakes are usually first to surface
and they wait patiently for the females to come out. As the larger females
surface, the male snakes are eager to mate with them.

This eagerness is displayed in a “mating ball”, where one female is
surrounded by up to one hundred males. There are four active snake dens at the
Narcisse Snake Dens. The dens are connected by a 3.0 kilometre self-guiding
interpretive trail. Although the garter snakes are harmless, they are best
viewed from the observation platforms built next to the dens.

To get to the snake dens just look for the signs on Highway #17, 6
kilometres(3.6 miles) north of Narcisse. Turn east at the entrance sign
and follow the short road to the parking lot. Here you will find
orientation signs, washrooms and a 3 kilometre (1.8 mile) walking trail.
It’s a good idea to bring refreshments and a lunch as there is no food or
beverage service on site.

More information and maps
are available, as well as some facts
about red-sided garter snakes in Manitoba.